The South African Police Service (SAPS) have issued a warning to the public to avoid rushing to the scenes of cash-in-transit heists. Such actions not only compromise personal safety but also risk implicating individuals in crimes due to the potential for forensic evidence to mistakenly place them at the scene.

WARNING FOLLOWS A CASH-IN-TRANSIT HEIST THAT OCCURRED ON SATURDAY

This warning follows a cash-in-transit heist that occurred on Saturday, 25 May, outside a mall in Mangaung. At approximately 13:30, a security vehicle was ambushed by a group of armed suspects driving a BMW.

The SAPS supported by private security personnel, responded swiftly to the heist incident. A shootout ensued, though fortunately, no injuries were reported.

In a multi-disciplinary approach, SAPS deployed additional personnel to assist detectives in tracing the cash-in-transit heists suspects. Working around the clock, their hard work paid off when an intelligence-driven operation led to the apprehension of seven suspects hiding in various locations around Mangaung. Authorities recovered the stolen money, two firearms (an AK-47 rifle and a pistol), thirty rounds of ammunition, and two cars during the operation.

IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY SAFETY

Provincial Commissioner Lt. Gen. Baile Motswenyane emphasised the importance of community safety and praised the team for their swift action.

“The safety of our communities remains our top priority, and we will continue to work tirelessly to combat any criminal activity in this province,” Motswenyane stated, commending the team for bringing the perpetrators to justice so quickly after the incident.

According to SAPS, by rushing to heist scenes, individuals not only put themselves at risk but may also hinder investigations and unintentionally become suspects due to the presence of forensic evidence. Authorities urge the public to heed these warnings to ensure their safety and aid law enforcement efforts.

THIRD QUARTER CRIME STATISTICS FOR THE 2023/24 FINANCIAL YEAR

Minister of Police General Bheki Cele announced the third quarter crime statistics for the 2023/24 financial year.

Focusing on cash-in-transit (CIT) heists, Cele outlined that specialised teams deployed in each province have contributed to a reduction in CIT armed robberies. During this period, 46 CIT robberies were reported, 11 fewer than in the previous reporting period.

Over the past year, more than 75 wanted CIT suspects have been arrested in takedown operations. Authorities also seized high-calibre firearms, including rifles and AK-47s, as well as high-performance vehicles used in these crimes.

source:Police warn public: Avoid rushing to cash-in-transit heist scenes (thesouthafrican.com)